Most Inspirational Moment
To choose one single moment is difficult as this trip covers a wide area, and of course each day finds different experiences. One thing that surprised me was the excellent food. Brazil’s food culture is incredibly diverse, shaped by a blend of Indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences. Each region offers its own specialties, from seafood-rich dishes to hearty, meat-focused cuisine. Staples like rice, beans, cassava, and tropical fruits form the basis of many meals. Every time I ate fish it was fresh and beautifully presented. Meeting the indigenous people at the cassava processing place was a lovely time as they demonstrated the incredible uses for their staple crop.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The leader Frederico Crema (Fred) was the ideal guide for this kind of tour. He had extensive knowledge of the tourist sites and local customs, wildlife and a talent for logistics, organisation and communication. This was the first outing for this trip for Exodus but not for Fred. He had a lot of experience in trips of all kinds around Brazil and he handled everything with enthusiasm, ease and good humour. It was a small group and he kept us informed and entertained. He had a love of food and music and these things came in useful as he arranged for us to eat at some unique and special places, and suggested live music venues on several evenings. The Bottles Club (birthplace of the Bossa Nova) in Rio was a real highlight.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack light as it's a warm climate with varied environments. Breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and swim wear for beaches/rivers. The walk in Tijuca can be steep and wet under foot. Water bottle to stay hydrated. Carry a copy of your passport, and a small day bag for outings. Power adapters are 3 pin Type N, but I'd buy one in Rio as they are much cheaper there and you probably won't need it outside Brazil. There are some long drives and early starts for internal flights, but as this trip was in development and our feedback to the leader is taken on board this could be adjusted in future trips. If Fred is your guide trust his judgement, if he suggests something just do it. You won't regret it 🙂